Students learn a lesson about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), often referred to as food stamps, and its critical role in supporting Americans’ health and financial well-being. This lesson covers the essentials of SNAP, including eligibility requirements, benefits, and the application process. It emphasizes how SNAP helps a diverse group of recipients—from students to families—maintain a healthy diet affordably. Participants are introduced to the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, a key tool for purchasing essential food items such as fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy.

Additionally, the lesson addresses the stigma associated with SNAP and underlines its importance in providing security, health, and the opportunity to pursue personal dreams. By understanding how SNAP serves as a vital support during challenging times, students learn how the program ensures that everyone has access to the nutritious food they need.

CONCEPTS

Use this video lesson on the topic of SNAP and Government Assistance Programs. Learn basic related concepts of

• Budgeting
• Saving
• Investing
• Career Planning
• Earning Income
• Buying Goods
• Using Credit
• Financial Decision Making

GRADE LEVEL

9-12th grades. High School. Adult Education.

TIME REQUIRED

30-45 Minutes. It may be necessary to adjust the lesson plan and allocate more or less time to certain topics, depending on the needs and interests of the students. More in-depth lesson plan below will be longer.

PROCEDURE

Hand out the worksheet below (see the GET LESSON button near the bottom of the page).

Show students the video and have and have them complete the worksheet.  Review the questions on the worksheet.  For a more in-depth lesson, complete the lesson plan below.

What is SNAP? Eligibility and Benefits of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

After watching the video, ask students to summarize the main points made in the video.

 

Lesson Plan: Understanding SNAP

 

Objective: By the end of this lesson, students will be able to explain the purpose of SNAP, identify who is eligible for the program, and understand how it supports individuals and families in maintaining a nutritious diet.

Materials Needed:

• Video titled “What is SNAP?”
• Internet-connected device for video playback

Lesson Duration: 45 minutes

Lesson Outline:

1. Introduction (5 minutes): Begin with a brief discussion on the importance of nutrition and the challenges some people face in accessing healthy food. Introduce SNAP as a government program designed to help.

2. Video Viewing (15 minutes): Show the video titled “What is SNAP?”. Encourage students to take notes on key points, especially on how SNAP works, eligibility criteria, and its importance.

3. Discussion (10 minutes): Facilitate a discussion using guided questions:

   • What misconceptions exist about SNAP and the people who use it?
   • How does SNAP contribute to an individual’s ability to focus on their studies or job?
   • Why is it important for students and young adults to be aware of programs like SNAP?

4. Activity (10 minutes): Divide students into small groups. Each group creates a scenario where a person or family might need to apply for SNAP. They should discuss how SNAP would benefit this person/family and present their scenario to the class.

5. Quiz (5 minutes): Conclude the lesson with a short quiz to assess students’ understanding of SNAP, its eligibility criteria, and benefits. Use a quiz platform to facilitate this.

Discussion Questions:

• How can SNAP impact someone’s daily life and future prospects?
• In what ways does SNAP address food insecurity and its consequences?
• Discuss the importance of reducing the stigma associated with using SNAP. How can society contribute to this?

Homework Assignment: Write a reflection essay on the role of government programs like SNAP in ensuring food security and nutrition. Consider including personal stories or hypothetical scenarios to illustrate points.

Further Reading/Resources: Provide a list of resources where students can learn more about SNAP, its application process, and stories from those who have benefited from the program.

Lesson Resources

• What is SNAP? Eligibility and Benefits of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program